A recent study published in Science Advances sheds new light on the enigmatic early evolution of snakes by examining an unexpected source: their brains. The results emphasize the significance of studying both the soft parts of animals' bodies and their bones for understanding how animals evolved.
Understanding animal evolution beyond fossils
"What's really exciting is that this study is not only about snakes. It's also showing us a way to learn about other animals whose history is a bit of a mystery because we lack fossils for studying them," says Principal Investigator Nicolas Di-Poï, Research Director at the Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki.
By examining both present-day animals and those from the past, along with bones and different crucial organs like the brain, scientists can piece together the story of how these creatures changed and evolved over time. This research underscores a vital lesson for the field of biology: unraveling the mysteries of animal evolution goes beyond the analysis of bone remains. To comprehend the transformation of creatures like snakes over time, scientists must consider other components of their bodies, including
and internal organs. This is particularly crucial when studying animals from eras when their bones might not have been well-preserved.Simone Macrì et al, Reconstructing the origin and early evolution of the snake brain,
Singapore Latest News, Singapore Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Science Festival this weekend at Because ScienceCome join us at Because Science in Adams Morgan for an exciting event that celebrates the wonders of science! Get ready to immerse yourself in a weekend filled with interactive projects, thrilling experiments, and challenges that meld science + art. Whether you’re a science enthusiast, a curious mind, or just looking for a fun-filled day,
Read more »
3D organoids unlock promising insights into lung cancer in dogsVeterinary researchers have used organoids—three-dimensional organ-like structures grown from stem cells and tissue samples—to investigate the biological processes of lung cancer in dogs, a disease that is much rarer in our canine friends than it is in humans, but often far more deadly
Read more »
Research reveals new insights into soil liquefaction during earthquakesSoil liquefaction, a destructive phenomenon occurring during earthquakes, has traditionally been associated with undrained conditions near the earthquake epicenter. However, new research conducted by Dr. Shahar Ben-Zeev at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem and the University of Strasbourg has unveiled a remarkable discovery—liquefaction can occur under drained conditions even at remarkably low seismic-energy density levels. This research offers a comprehensive explanation for earthquake far-field liquefaction events that have long puzzled scientists.
Read more »
Breaking Down Barriers to Crypto Adoption | Insights from Jan Van Eck and Matt HouganA candid conversation with valuable perspectives on the dynamic world of crypto assets and how they have the capacity to transform conventional investment approaches.
Read more »
Mastering B2B Content Ideation: Insights from 6 Industry Experts6 Subject-matter-experts share their real-life experiences with B2B content ideation
Read more »
Bringing Spiritual Insights Into LanguageLearn the three-part skill of Real Dialogue.
Read more »